The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sent notices to the Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary and DGP over alleged human rights violations at political rallies in the scorching heat.

The Commission took cognizance of a complaint that several people were gathered, forced and threatened to sit for political rallies, in open fields, under the scorching sun for four to five hours without drinking water and other basic facilities leading to injuries and loss of lives. The NHRC noted that violations happened despite the District Collectors’ orders that public should not venture out from 11am to 4pm due to the heat.

Issuing the notices, the NHRC said, “while the political parties, especially during the election period, have every right to organise public meetings, it is also the duty of the State/District Administration, while granting permissions for such meetings, to take all necessary steps considering the safety and security issues in mind."  

Five people have died due to heatstroke and overcrowding at political rallies. The Commission has called for detailed reports, within two weeks, about the circumstances leading to the deaths.